Program Overview

Undergraduate Program in Entomology

The entomology major is designed for students who want to learn more about insects and their relationship with humans and the environment. The Department of Entomology offers classes covering topics ranging from how insects are used in forensic investigations, invasive insect species, and how insects impact public health.

Program Description

A major in entomology will provide students with a strong scientific background as well as a greater understanding of the importance of insects as beneficial organisms as well as their detrimental impacts to humans as pests. Students in the entomology program will also learn practical skills like pest management, experimental design, and applications of molecular biology.

Career Opportunities

Entomology is a small field that can prepare students for a career in conservation, pest management, apiculture in a range of private, academic, and governmental institutions. Entomology can be elected as a double major within the School of Environmental and Biological Sciences (SEBS) or the School of Arts and Sciences (SAS).

Program Learning Goals

Graduates of the major will have demonstrated:

• Broad knowledge of the systematics, anatomy, physiology, ecology, and biochemistry of insects
• Ability to explain and assess the detrimental and beneficial impacts that insects have on plants, animals, and humanity
• Ability to design, implement, and analyze experiments or pest management programs and interpret data
• Communication of entomological information to the scientific community and to the general public
• Ethical principles required in professional fields

Program Director

Chloe Hawkings
Thompson Hall, Rm. 132

Affiliated Programs

• Graduate Program in Entomology
• Minor in Entomology
• Certificate Program in Plant Biosecurity

Related Units

• Rutgers, The State University of New Jersey
• Rutgers–New Brunswick
• Rutgers School of Environmental and Biological Sciences
• Rutgers New Jersey Agricultural Experiment Station
• Executive Dean of Agriculture & Natural Resources

About the Field

Insects are the most abundant and diverse animal group on earth and can be found in almost every terrestrial ecosystem and have a profound effect on their ecosystems as well as human society.